Cairn Box – September

Review of Cairn Box #6 was delayed because apparently it arrived right after I filled out postal forwarding and thus got redirected. This is the last box in the 6 month subscription, and given what’s in it, I’m not really convinced it justifies another 6 month bout.

BlackStrap Daily Tube  Value: $20.

What they say:  “This version of BlackStrap’s versatile facemask features art submitted by a fellow Cairn adventurer, plus it provides breathable, quick-drying, UPF 50+ sun protection or a bit of warmth for an early fall chill.”

What I say:  I’m not sure what this is to be used for… it seems too bulky for a headband and too light for a neck gaiter.  The best hope for value is once ski season comes around.

My valuation:  Looks like some colors are available on amazon for as little as $5… that seems reasonable if this is a thing you want.  Also, they include a coupon for 40% off, which I’m betting is still a profitable price for 1.5 square feet of fabric, and would put the price at $12.  Janet used a gift card to buy a $12 headband I wanted and I still question that.

Epiphany Outdoor Gear v3 Pocket Bellows  Value: $15.

What they say:  “This ancient fire starting technology molded intoa modern telescopic hand tool is compact, lightweight and will help get your campfire burning quickly even with wet wood.”

What I say:  Good luck getting wet wood to burn with a 1/4″ tube.  I’ve used this “ancient fire starting technology” before by rolling up some paper to direct air into a fire… and then, when the job is done, it too goes into the fire.  The number of these very niche items for camping kind of amuses me – do people camp with tool chests?  “Wait, wait, wait!  Don’t start the fire yet, I have a little collapsible tube thing in here somewhere!”

My valuation:  Meh, $5, maybe… the end, which is where you’d push to collapse it is actually quite sharp and it’s value will probably be a cut on my hand should I ever use it.

Skout Organic Raw Pumpkin Seeds   Value: $6.50.

What they say: “Even those that don’t think they like pumpkin will find these organic superfood seeds delicious.  Packed with protein, zinc, iron, magnesium and omega-3’s, they will add spice and fuel to your next adventure.”

What I say:  I’m one of those who don’t care for pumpkin seeds.  I like pumpkin (not pumpkin spice lattes) but I don’t really care for the seeds that emerge from the glorp inside.  That said, the sales pitch might get me to try them and there does seem to be a pretty hefty amount.

My valuation:  $3 – double my standard bar valuation

Whiskey Run Butter Stick Lip Balm  Value: $3.50

What they say: “Plant based organic cocoa and cupuacu butter, and other natural ingredients, provide moisture and sun protection to make dry, chapped lips someone else’s problem.”

What I say:  HOLY CRAP IT’S AVAILABLE ON ETSY!  TRENDY LIP BALM!!!!

My valuation:  $1.29 – Based on checkout lane chapstick pricing du jour, I don’t pay for trendy.

UST Brands Compass Carabiner  Value: $3.50

What they say: “More than just a key ring, this carabiner provides that critical bit of information when your GPS says “head west on…” and you don’t know which way that is.”

What I say:  I don’t like that the brand name is “UST Brands” you can’t use the word brands in a brand.  Secondly, I would never trust a keychain compass.

My valuation:  $.99 for the carabiner

Mike Putnam Photography Greeting Card  Value: $3.50

What they say: “Mike’s spectacular landscape photos are features in brew pubs and shops all over our hometown, so we thought we’d share a little bit of that inspiration.”

What I say:  I don’t care… It’s a printed image that’s less than 3 feet wide.  (This is not a commentary on the picture itself, or the photographer).

My valuation:  —

Conclusion:  As listed, the content’s value is $51 which is borderline ridiculous given my assessment which puts it all at 10.29.

And, here, since I was so grumpy in the review is a photo of my own to inspire you… It’s a buffalo pie looking up toward Mt. Washburn!  NOW GET OUT THERE AND ENJOY SOME NATURE!

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About norconkm

I'm a person. I live in Grand Rapids, MI and work as an Electrical Engineer. My hobbies at the time of this writing are kayaking, skiing, archery, photography and maybe biking. As this is my personal blog, my hobbies are likely the primary topics about which you will be reading.

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